Programmed Cell Death 4 (PDCD4) is a novel tumor suppressor protein involved in the regulation of programmed cell death, also known as apoptosis. It plays a crucial role in inhibiting tumor progression and metastasis by regulating protein translation and gene expression. PDCD4 has been extensively studied in various cancer models, and its down-regulation is often associated with poor prognosis in cancer patients .
PDCD4 is encoded by the PDCD4 gene located on chromosome 10q24. The protein consists of multiple domains that allow it to interact with various molecular partners, including eukaryotic initiation factors and RNA-binding proteins. PDCD4 inhibits protein translation by binding to the eukaryotic initiation factor 4A (eIF4A), preventing the formation of the translation initiation complex .
PDCD4 acts as a tumor suppressor by inhibiting the translation of oncogenes and promoting the expression of tumor suppressor genes. Its expression is often down-regulated in various types of cancers, including breast, lung, and colorectal cancers. Studies have shown that reduced PDCD4 expression is associated with increased tumor aggressiveness, metastasis, and poor patient survival .
Mouse anti-human PDCD4 antibodies are monoclonal antibodies developed to specifically target and bind to the human PDCD4 protein. These antibodies are widely used in research to study the expression and function of PDCD4 in human cells and tissues. They are also employed in diagnostic applications to detect PDCD4 levels in cancer patients, aiding in the assessment of tumor progression and prognosis .
Research on PDCD4 has provided valuable insights into its role in cancer biology and its potential as a therapeutic target. Studies using mouse models have demonstrated that PDCD4 deficiency leads to the development of spontaneous lymphomas and reduced lifespan, highlighting its importance in tumor suppression . Additionally, PDCD4 has been implicated in the regulation of autoimmune inflammation, suggesting its potential role in inflammatory diseases .